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How will the installation happen?

The smart meter installation process is straightforward. Your energy supplier will install your smart meter free of charge and the installation only takes a couple of hours so you'll be up and running in no time.

This page will help you to understand the installation process and avoid problems.

Why should you get a smart meter installed?

Once your smart meter has been installed, you can start taking control of your energy usage. Your in-home display will show you exactly how much energy you're using each day in pounds and pence. Accurate meter readings will be sent to your energy supplier which will also mean an end to estimated bills.

Preparing for the installation

How are smart meters installed?

Before your installation day

Your energy supplier will contact you beforehand to arrange a time and date for your installation. They will tell you what to expect, how long it will take and if there’s anything special you need to do.

A word of advice:

You will need to let the installer in on the day and make sure they can get access to your traditional meters. So you might need to clear out the cupboards. Any access issues, do let your supplier know.

During your installation

Depending on whether you're having one or both replaced, you'll get a smart electricity meter and a smart gas meter. These normally go exactly where your old meters were. If they need to be fitted somewhere else, the installer will ask you first.

You’ll also be offered an in-home display – a portable display screen that you can put anywhere in your home. You don’t have to have one, but it’s the easiest way to see what energy you’re using and what it’s costing you. The in-home display will not cost you anything.

The installer has to:

show you a photo ID card before they start

explain what your smart meter system does and how to use it

check it’s all working properly

give you a handy guide to using it

answer any questions you have

tell you where you can find more help and information

Will the person who installs my smart meter be properly qualified?

Yes, all installers have to pass a formal qualification and have to meet specific national standards. These standards are set out in the Smart Meter Installation Code of Practice. All the energy suppliers have signed up to this code, which is regulated by Ofgem, who have powers to enforce it by fining suppliers if necessary.

Ask your energy supplier for a smart meter

Smart meters do not cost you anything and will be installed without charge by your energy supplier, even if you rent.

FAQs

Where will new meters be installed?

Typically, your new smart meters go exactly where your traditional gas and electricity meters were. If they need to be fitted elsewhere, your smart meter installer will ask you first.

What kit do I get from my smart meter installation?

Depending on whether you're having one or both replaced, you’ll get a smart electricity meter and a smart gas meter.

You’ll also be offered an in-home display. This may be called lots of things – like an IHD or smart meter display. It’s a handheld digital device that sits in your home. It’s up to you if you want one, but we’d definitely recommend it. It’s the best way to use your smart meter to see what you’re spending and you could use that information to make savings.